Abstract: An improved system and method for using a file system to automatically backup a file in persistent storage is provided. A storage aggregator may organize nonvolatile memory for use in aggregate to store backup copies of a file. A file system filter driver may receive a request from an application for storing a file and may access a policy to determining whether to create a backup copy of the file and what type of backup to apply to the file. A generational file handler may create and manage a set of generational files as backup copies of a particular application file. And a recovery user interface may be provided to retrieve one or more backup copies, such as the set of generational files, for inspection by a user to recover whatever copy of the file may be desired by the user.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling a stylus-based computer based on the location of a stylus is described. In some aspects, removing a stylus from storage may turn on the computer system. In other aspects, power consumed by a digitizer may be modified in accordance with the location of a stylus.

Abstract: A computing system is equipped with one or more ports, each of which includes a plurality of coupler lines configured to engage connectors that may be associated with different types of external services and/or devices, including public switched telephone networks, Ethernet networks, ISDN networks, and/or telephone devices. Upon detecting a connection to a port, a controller evaluates at least one electrical property of the lines of the port. Based on the evaluation, the controller determines if the port is engaged with a known type of service or device. When the type of service or device is known, the controller selectively switches a plurality of port lines to appropriate communications subsystems to enable the computing system to communicate with the device or service. For example, a conventional telephone device can then be used as an audio input/output device for communication over the Internet rather than over a public switched telephone network.

Abstract: A method and system for configuring a new device are disclosed. The method includes using a host system to create a configuration file including data useable to configure the new device. A portable storage device is interfaced to the host and the configuration file is transferred to the storage device. The storage device is then interfaced to the new device and the configuration file is transferred to the new device. The configuration file is optionally used to configure the new device for communication over a network. A method for configuring the new device using a direct connection between the new device and a system bus of the host is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and system for configuring a new device are disclosed. The method includes using a host system to create a configuration file including data useable to configure the new device. A portable storage device is interfaced to the host and the configuration file is transferred to the storage device. The storage device is then interfaced to the new device and the configuration file is transferred to the new device. The configuration file is optionally used to configure the new device for communication over a network. A method for configuring the new device using a direct connection between the new device and a system bus of the host is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and system for configuring a new device are disclosed. The method includes using a host system to create a configuration file including data useable to configure the new device. A portable storage device is interfaced to the host and the configuration file is transferred to the storage device. The storage device is then interfaced to the new device and the configuration file is transferred to the new device. The configuration file is optionally used to configure the new device for communication over a network. A method for configuring the new device using a direct connection between the new device and a system bus of the host is also disclosed.

Abstract: A secure memory device and method for obtaining and securely storing information relating to a life moment is disclosed. In the method, a parameter is received and inputted in a search heuristic. A search is made for the information according to the search heuristic and, upon finding the information, metadata is appended to the information. The information and metadata is then stored in a secure memory location. The secure memory location has a housing fabricated to withstand a predetermined stress, a detachable connection to a computer and a memory that stores the information and protects it from unauthorized deletion. In some embodiments, the stored information may be selectively deleted in a safe and controlled manner.

Abstract: A handheld remote control device for a Media Computing Device has a biometric sensor to authenticate a user. The handheld remote control device includes a microphone and speaker to enable integration of a telephony system with the Media Computing Device. The handheld remote control device can be used as the interface with the Media Computing Device, alternatively, the handheld remote control device can be used as a speakerphone for communication in a telephony system that is integrated with the Media Computing Device. A multifunctional handheld remote control device can implement a variety of routines for interfacing with the Media Computing Device or alternatively for communicating in the telephony system.

Abstract: A computing system that incorporates an auxiliary processor to the main system processor. The auxiliary system utilizes a separate application runtime for processes and is capable of operating even when the primary system is in an off state. Methods for load-balancing are provided based on computing needs respective to power consumption requirements. Processes that are not computationally intensive are processed by a low-power, auxiliary processor. In addition, peripheral components accessible to the overall computing system are shared.

Abstract: A method for modifying the operation of a device responsive to the detection of a remote device is provided. In the method, the remote device is detected, and communications with the remote device are established responsive to the detection of the remote device. A determination is made as to whether a feature of the device is affected by the establishment of communications with the remote device, and an action with respect to the feature of the device is initiated.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for remotely monitoring diverse computer systems in a similar manner over an out-of-band communication channel. Remote monitoring ordinarily is performed over an in-band communication channel. However, hardware and/or software problems may make the in-band communication channel unavailable for a time. While the in-band communication channel is unavailable, the management computer receives status information over the out-of-band communication channel. Based on received status information, the management computer identifies actions to take, such as controlling processes or otherwise configuring the remote computer system, and communicates the actions to the remote computer system over the out-of-band communication channel. The management computer is capable of communicating with any of several diverse computers and exchanges data in a format that is independent of any particular computer system.